Tissot PRS 516 Extreme Automatic Watch Hands-On

For 2013, Tissot has taken one of our favorite families in their collection and updated it with an "Extreme" model. We were pretty sure that after the "extreme" label was overused on everything from deodorant to caffeine drinks several years ago, its use would have been reserved to actual extreme situations. To be honest, ask us what an "extreme" watch is and we'd have to think it over for a while... maybe a watch that yells and then explodes? That would be pretty extreme. Despite the generic label which tends to merely mean "new," this modern update on the PRS 516 is looking to be a nice watch. Let's take check it out.

Now, think "PRS 516" and most watch lovers are going to imagine Tissot's muscle car era revival watch with its slick retro lines and beautiful minimalized 1960s/1970s style. We especially like the three hand automatic models, while the quartz and automatic chronographs aren't too bad either. The new PRS 516 Extreme Automatic has a design that is very different from existing PRS 516 collection models, but if you take a close look you can see the resemblance.

It is important to be mindful of how the PRS 516 Extreme Automatic fits into the overall PRS 516 family. It isn't the most expensive model, but it is about $100 shy of it. The most expensive model arguably has a better movement, but not nearly the level of case and dial detailing. Like we pointed out, the PRS 516 is for the most part a retro-looking timepiece collection, while the Extreme is a sort of modern re-imagining of it. The case of the Extreme is 44mm wide and it is thick at 15.73mm. Lug for the odd-sized 23mm wide strap offer a happily imposing stance on the wrist.

The coolest part of the PRS 516 is its attractive modern design that doesn't leave functionality or utility as a second class citizen. The steel case is made from both brushed and PVD black-coated pieces. Mixed with red (or yellow), the case has a slick modern architecture and bold appearance that looks like something more expensive than it is. Tissot has clearly taken inspiration from many of the high-end modern looking sport watches out there, as well as from its other pieces such as the cases on the T-Touch collection. Some of the best uses of color and detail are on the crown and pushers.

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Fueled by an unshakable love for horology and a general curiosity for intricate things, Ariel Adams founded aBlogtoWatch in 2007 as a means of sharing his passion. Since then, ABTW has become the highest trafficked blog on luxury timepieces, and Ariel has become a contributor to other online publications such as Forbes, Departures and Tech Crunch, to name just a few. His conversational writing style and inclusive attitude brings a wider appreciation for watches the world over, and that's just the way he likes it.
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Looks like any number of better value, better looking quartz watches with the “sporty” theme. No, having an automatic chrono movement is not quite enough to make me overlook the design. I’m not a hundred percent sure this thing didn’t yell then explode in transit on its way to be reviewed; it’s a busy-looking watch with plenty of seemingly disparate elements but I guess that’s what passes for a sporty look now. I’ll assume the misaligned date is because it is changing over, which hopefully doesn’t take too long with this movement; I don’t know. The yellow one looks OK if you don’t get too close.

Jacquess

It looks ok, but the price is really bad. For that kind of money I’d expect a 7750. The best part about the C01.211 is that it can be found in a $300 Swatch.

bnabod

I have a older PRS 516 chrono that I love and paid half the price with a 7750 in it and it runs just great +3 secs per day.
this one is cluttered to me and looks like they are trying way too hard

IsmaelMartinez

I like to concept but the price point is really too high. I have my Swatch Auto Chrono set to 5 secs per day. Thats enough for me considering i wear it no more than once a week. Nice look too high a price.

Kris C

Not sure if want…? I don’t mind that it is quite busy, I find the styling to be rather striking. Not a fan of red, this would look better in a shade of green methinks. I don’t think it is overpriced for what it is, but I hesitate because it really does look like a quartz piece.

nateb123

Kris C There’s a version that uses yellow instead of red. Makes it look a whole hell of a lot better

Aspect

First look at it, I just though Bulova Precisionist Champlain. Especially the dial.

triplekia

IMO, it looks like a stereotypical fussy & crowded sport watch.

Ryan B

Half of the number six is missing so now it looks like the Beats by Dre logo. It would look better without it.

nickyabelardo

A 1500$ swatch…for 1500 give me 775x

Spaceguitar

I have a C01.211 in my Tissot Couturier which I quite like, but agree that the movement itself isn’t particularly gorgeous. I certainly have a soft spot for Tissots though, my entry into this world.
But more importantly, I am now inspired to design a watch that yells then explodes, LOL!!! Partner(s) to get a Kickstarter going anyone?
(I’m probably on some government list now for typing “explodes”, ah well)

pkansa

While the Tissot is in a different league, seeing those T’s on the hands reminds me of the TX line that (I don’t believe) is around anymore.

spiceballs

Actually like Tissot which was also a first solid watch for me, but in my view they have “crossed too many T’s” on this dial. Agree red is too much and maybe mid green or blue would be better options? They certainly have blue on their palette.